Williams, who started in new Australian manager Ange Postecoglou’s first squad against Costa Rica, was expected to be one of the country’s mainstays at the World Cup finals in Brazil after missing the 2010 World Cup with a serious pelvic injury..

But Australian fans’ fears were realised when Middlesbrough took to social media to announce the extent of Williams’ injury.

"[Middlesbrough coach] Aitor Karanka has confirmed that Rhys Williams is likely to miss the rest of the season with his Achilles injury,” the club tweeted.

Aitor Karanka has confirmed that Rhys Williams is likely to miss the rest of the season with his Achilles injury.